Poor Sports Ruining Ski Trails

"Unfortunately today, really good conditions but about half the trails have been destroyed by ATV's and snowmobiles." Mitch Schilts is grooming the ski trails at Tower Ridge Recreation Area- something he says is a more difficult job this year.

"When the ATV's and snowmobilers come out here and tear it up, they take what I would call the 'best line'--- so they can take the corners faster. That really messes up, and leaves a lot of junk on the trail." Schilts says there are separate trails for ATV’s and snowmobiles- so it upsets him to see this damage.

"Ski season is so short, and so starved for snow- especially the last three or four years. And now we finally got some snow and BAM! Half of it's trashed." Schilts says.

The county says any ATV rider or snowmobiler could face vandalism charges if they're caught roughing up ski trails. Despite the damage, the trails are open for skiers at tower ridge from five to nine on weeknights. Beginning December 10th, the trails will be open all day.

From WQOW-TV, Eau Claire, Wis.

Michigan-Wisconsin Big Snow Country Updates and Expansions

ABR Trails, Ironwood, Mich. -- The ski shop and warming cabin were expanded, more restrooms were added, and a sun deck and two new ski-in cabins were built. ABR has added 13 km of trails, bringing the total to 55 kilometers. The new terrain is intermediate with some beautiful bluffs overlooking the Montreal River Valley.

Wolverine Trails, Ironwood, Mich. The folks at Wolverine have built a new trail called Western Ridge. It starts off of Cliff Trail and climbs up to top of the old ski jumps, where you'll be treated to great panoramic views of the area. The constant terrain change, speed and climbs should make a fun addition to this already great trail system.

Montreal Trails, Montreal, Wis. The home to the Stormy Kromer Pursuit gets a new warming building, new signs, trail improvements and a new roomier finish area for the race. The addition of an old stone building will add warmth and nostalgia to these classic trails built on a historic mining area. Make sure you take some time to stop and read the plaques about mining and how the company built and owned the town.

Mecca Trails, Mercer, Wis. These trails feature 20 kilometers of gently rolling terrain, good for beginning skaters and ready for those who want to get away from the crowds. A full-log warming chalet, with in-floor heat and a changing room, will be completed by Christmas. A pleasant wood stove fire is also burning on cold days. New this year is a 5K skating trail that starts and ends at the chalet. The Mercer Trails are the site for the skate leg of the Stormy Kromer Pursuit.

Milje's in Wakefield, Mich., is a quaint 9 km easy classic trail. Stop in the little cabin and start a fire before you go skiing. Then take a break or relax after your ski in a warm cabin.

Uller Trail, Pence, Wisc., is a remote and scenic 18 km classic trail and is not groomed that often, providing a get-away-from-it all backcountry experience.